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If you read yesterday’s blog post, you’ll know what I’ve been thinking about the Philippines. For today’s photo, I have something doubly Filipino. I bring you a little Jollibee key chain. Don’t know Jolliebee? He–always assumed a he–is the Philippine Ronald McDonald. At least that’s how I describe him. Despite several trips to Philippines, I’ve never eaten at Jollibee, though I must admit that I’ve thought about it, but somehow always stopped myself from walking in the front door. I have, in my past, eaten at McDonald’s, although it was years ago and not something I’m proud of.

this is from a used ketchup, or "catsup" pack

Anyway, this A for adorable key chain is made from used ketchup packs. Or, catsup. At least that’s the word you see inside. And, for the double Philippine edge, this recycled accessory is made by a women’tacollective in Manila. You can buy them from Three Stone Steps in person, or through our site if you want.

I’ve spent some time in the Philippines. In fact, at this very moment I’m waiting, waiting, waiting for Three Stone Steps’ popular recycled ornaments and dreidels to arrive from a women’s collective there. We also carry key chains, headbands, and small purses made from juice packs by a different women’s collective there.I live in Baltimore. I love it here. I always say that if I were going to leave Baltimore, it would be for a big move, to a place like Buenos Aires or Tbilisi. My reality, though, isn’t the same for everyone. Life can be hard here.And, life is also hard for many in the Philippines.So, with great interest, I watched an excellent POV video called The Learning that glimpsed into the lives of four Filipina teachers both in their homes and with their families, and teaching in Baltimore, after being recruited by the city schools.I found the film engaging and powerful. If you have some time, you should sit down and watch while it’s available. I’ve posted the trailer below to give you a glimpse. Let me know what you think.

After great success in painting an old, ugly mannequin bust, I decided to try my hand at transforming an old, ugly, blemished full size mannequin that I bought years ago from a church thrift store. (I think they were happy to unload it, since the woman who sold it to me said that men stopped by and stared in the plate glass window when it was being changed into a new outfit. )

All week long we’ve been hearing about the 10th anniversary of the horrific September 11 attacks. Not much I can add to the remembrance, except to wish everyone peace.Today’s Friday Photo is of an artisan who works with old metal oil drums in Croix-des-Bouquets, Haiti. Three Stone Steps carries the peace sign in Jean Claudes’ right hand, although it’s currently on back order. We also carry the dragonflies with butterflies piece in his left, although that’s not yet on the site. We also carry the love and peace pieces in the background.Enough of the introduction. And, without further ado, here’s your Friday Photo:

While there’s something of a debate as to whether Baltimore, the location of Three Stone Steps’worldwide headquarters, is in the rust belt (I’m of the firm opinion that it isn’t, but that certainly doesn’t mean that it’s not a post-industrial city), there is no doubt that Buffalo is.For this Labor Day, I’m sort of happy sort of sad to present you with photos of the magnificent Central Station in Buffalo, from a city that has seen better times. Here’s hoping that it–along with the city and all cities–will be reinvented into great, and green urban hubs.Happy Labor Day.